Book excerpt: Batch Effects and Noise in Microarray Experiments: Sources and Solutions looks at the issue of technical noise and batch effects in microarray studies and illustrates how to alleviate such factors whilst interpreting the relevant biological information. Each chapter focuses on sources of noise and batch effects before starting an experiment, with examples of statistical methods for detecting, measuring, and managing batch effects within and across datasets provided online. Throughout the book the importance of standardization and the value of standard operating procedures in the development of genomics biomarkers is emphasized. Key Features: A thorough introduction to Batch Effects and Noise in Microrarray Experiments. A unique compilation of review and research articles on handling of batch effects and technical and biological noise in microarray data. An extensive overview of current standardization initiatives. All datasets and methods used in the chapters, as well as colour images, are available on www.the-batch-effect-book.org, so that the data can be reproduced. An exciting compilation of state-of-the-art review chapters and latest research results, which will benefit all those involved in the planning, execution, and analysis of gene expression studies.